The Thistle Inn
Welcome to the oldest bar in Wellington
Tucked into the historic heart of Thorndon, Wellington, the Thistle Inn stands as a living testament to New Zealand’s colonial past and enduring hospitality. Established in 1840 by Scottish carpenter William Couper, it holds the distinction of receiving the country’s second-ever liquor license,
making it the oldest surviving tavern still operating on its original site. Originally a single-storey timber structure overlooking the waterfront, the inn was a favored stop for sailors and locals alike. Legend even suggests that Māori chief Te Rauparaha would beach his waka nearby to enjoy a dram inside.
After a devastating fire in 1866, the Thistle Inn was swiftly rebuilt as a two-storey Victorian-style building, which continues to serve patrons to this day. Its rich history is further immortalized by New Zealand writer Katherine Mansfield, who featured the inn in her 1907 short story “Leves Amores.”
Today, the Thistle Inn operates as a gastropub, offering a menu that celebrates local flavors alongside a selection of New Zealand wines, beers, and spirits. Visitors can explore the inn’s storied past
through brief tours of the historic building, available by prior arrangement.
3 Mulgrave Street
Thorndon
Wellington
6011
Tucked into the historic heart of Thorndon, Wellington, the Thistle Inn stands as a living testament to New Zealand’s colonial past and enduring hospitality. Established in 1840 by Scottish carpenter William Couper, it holds the distinction of receiving the country’s second-ever liquor license,
making it the oldest surviving tavern still operating on its original site. Originally a single-storey timber structure overlooking the waterfront, the inn was a favored stop for sailors and locals alike. Legend even suggests that Māori chief Te Rauparaha would beach his waka nearby to enjoy a dram inside.
After a devastating fire in 1866, the Thistle Inn was swiftly rebuilt as a two-storey Victorian-style building, which continues to serve patrons to this day. Its rich history is further immortalized by New Zealand writer Katherine Mansfield, who featured the inn in her 1907 short story “Leves Amores.”
Today, the Thistle Inn operates as a gastropub, offering a menu that celebrates local flavors alongside a selection of New Zealand wines, beers, and spirits. Visitors can explore the inn’s storied past
through brief tours of the historic building, available by prior arrangement.
3 Mulgrave Street
Thorndon
Wellington
6011
